Roommates 101: Green Flags, Red Flags, and Essential Questions - Osgoode Properties Blog Skip to main content
Phone Number +1 866-794-1222
Resident Login Login Opens in a new tab
Osgoode Properties
Roommates 101: Green Flags, Red Flags, and Essential Questions - Osgoode Properties Blog

Roommates 101: Green Flags, Red Flags, and Essential Questions

  |     |   Apartment Living, Community

Thinking of living with a roommate?  

It’s important to choose someone who aligns with your lifestyle, shares similar expectations for cleanliness and communication, and respects personal boundaries. Taking the time to discuss routines, responsibilities, guests, and finances before moving in together can help create a positive living environment and prevent misunderstandings down the road. 

 

Here are some green and red flags to look for before signing a lease. 

Green Flags: Positive Indicators to Look For ✅ 

  • Has stable employment or a reliable source of income 

  • Is honest about guests, pets, and work schedules 

  • They are self-aware and can openly discuss their own weaknesses and living habits (no one is perfect) 

  • Open to meeting for coffee or a tour(s) before committing  

 

Red Flags: Warning Signs to Walk Away ���� 

  • Wants to sign the lease immediately without getting to know you 

  • Avoids conversations about finances 

  • Cannot provide references 

  • Is vague in their lifestyle discussion (E.g. Question: What is your lifestyle like? Them: “I just go with the flow”). 

  • Has incompatible lifestyle habits (partying, noise, schedules) 

  • Pressures you to make a quick decision 

  • Unclear length of stay expectations 

  • Avoids basic household tasks (dishes, sweeping, garbage, etc.) 

 

 

Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease ���� 

  • Can you comfortably afford the rent and utilities?  

  • Have you lived with roommates before?  If so, what are some things you liked and disliked?  

  • What are your expectations for cleanliness?  

  • How often do you have guests over (including a significant other)?  

  • What is your work or school schedule like?  

  • How do you prefer to handle disagreements?  

  • Are you comfortable splitting household chores?  

  • Can you provide a landlord or roommate reference?  

  • Do you have any pets or ever plan on getting one or more?  

  • What are your expectations for shared spaces? 

  • What temperature do you like to keep the apartment? 

  • Are there any foods you don't want in the home? 

 

 

Comments are closed.